While drilling ahead with 60 foot draft, the DEEP DRILLER encounters lost circulation and loses 900 Bbls. of 16 pounds per gallon mud to the hole. How much ballast must be taken on to maintain 60 foot draft?

Correct Answer: Option B — 270 long tons

Lost mud weight (900 barrels at 16 ppg) equals approximately 270 long tons. To maintain a constant 60-foot draft, equivalent ballast weight must be loaded to compensate for the lost drilling fluid weight.